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Frank Lloyd Wright · Gorgeous Views, Sweeping Valley, Amazing Sunsets

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Exterior
Interior
Private kitchen
Terrace/patio
Interior

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 21100 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Fireplace
  • Kitchen
  • Outdoor space

Explore the area

Map
Bellevue, IA
  • Belvedere Mansion
    ‪42 min drive‬
  • Grant Park
    ‪43 min drive‬
  • Eagle Ridge Resort Golf
    ‪52 min drive‬
  • Dubuque, IA (DBQ-Dubuque Regional)
    ‪21 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 2)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Spaces

Kitchen
Garden

About this property

Frank Lloyd Wright · Gorgeous Views, Sweeping Valley, Amazing Sunsets

If you love Frank Lloyd Wright you will love this cottage. Taking over 2.5 years to build in a secluded cedar woods, surrounded by bluffs and perched on top of the landscape. The original Frank Lloyd Wright cottage (Seth Petersen) is the inspiration to build this cottage.

When you walk in, you still feel like you're outside. The flying roof with only the glass to hold it up. The original structure was built in 1959, we tried to create the 50's feel with retro appliances and a space age feel (in the bathroom).

Once you're all set we'll provide instructions how one to access the key pad with your door code. Or, in other words no need to find us or where the key is hidden, rather punch in your code and wa-la the door unlocks.

We both work, but, we are around in the evenings and weekends. Only five minutes away if you have questions or concerns.

Hello, this is a remote cabin, or cottage in the woods perched on the bluff side overlooking a valley. When you stay, you will start at the bottom of the valley and drive all the way up to the top. This is where the cabin (or cottage) is located. Wildlife, trees, very peaceful as you are quite alone. No neighborhood for many miles.

You must have a automobile. This is a country cottage experience. The closest township is St. Donatus and good 1.5 mile hike.

You'll be over a mile away from the nearest township. Plan on being quite alone. I will recommend to go HyVee in Dubuque on Locust street. Quite a large selection (the flagship store in Dubuque) of food and spirits. Only 12 minutes away.
If winter booking, automobile must have front wheel or all wheel drive.
No climbing on bluffs
No outdoor shoes, bring inside shoes.

Property manager

Joe ODonnell
Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Adults only
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit

About the area

Bellevue

Bellevue is home to this cottage. Young Historical Museum and National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium are cultural highlights, and some of the area's attractions include Storybook Park & Zoo and Mystique Community Ice Center.
Map
Bellevue, IA

What's nearby

  • Belvedere Mansion - 42 min drive - 48.5 km
  • Dowling House - 42 min drive - 48.3 km
  • Grant Park - 43 min drive - 48.8 km
  • Grant Home - 43 min drive - 49.0 km
  • Eagle Ridge Resort Golf - 52 min drive - 60.1 km

Getting around

  • Dubuque, IA (DBQ-Dubuque Regional) - 21 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Casey's General Store - ‬36 min drive
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬36 min drive
  • ‪Los Aztecas II - ‬36 min drive
  • ‪The Wharf - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Kalmes Restaurant & Catering - ‬5 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Frank Lloyd Wright · Gorgeous Views, Sweeping Valley, Amazing Sunsets pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Frank Lloyd Wright · Gorgeous Views, Sweeping Valley, Amazing Sunsets?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Frank Lloyd Wright · Gorgeous Views, Sweeping Valley, Amazing Sunsets?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Frank Lloyd Wright · Gorgeous Views, Sweeping Valley, Amazing Sunsets located?

Situated in Bellevue, this cottage is 5.5 mi (8.8 km) from Mississippi River and within 12 miles (20 km) of John Henry Weber Park and Aqua Park. Mines of Spain State Recreation Area and Bellevue Golf Club are also within 12 miles (20 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
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Rating 10 - Excellent. 31 out of 31 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 31 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 31 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 31 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 31 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Madeline S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Stunning Cabin

This was an incredible property, so much care went into every detail of the cabin. My husband and I found the time we spent in this hilltop retreat both inspiring and relaxing. Great place to work through creative ideas and reconnect. Thanks Joe and Kelly!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sarah B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful property

Beautiful property. Attention to detail. Overall great experience.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jan P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Absolutely amazing

This place is a 10 of 10 for sure! It is quiet and cozy and so thoughtfully well stocked and clean and prepared. Can’t say enough about it except we can’t wait to go back!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Douglas C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

FLW Cottage

Beautiful setting and stunning home! Clean, private and amazing!!! The owners have thought of everything!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jessica T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

So relaxing and a beautiful view.

Second time staying at the property and I would again. The view is amazing and it is so relaxing. Perfect for a weekend away.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Nancy O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Gorgeous respite

Needing a much overdue getaway, we found this gem and can’t say enough positive things! Beautiful architecture….perfect setting…gracious hosts! We hope to come back in fall or winter to spend more time here.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jessica T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful and peaceful

The house and property are beautiful. Communication with owner was great and instructions for how everything works in the house was helpful. What a wonderful place to relax, and the view is amazing. Thanks for a great stay. I will be booking again.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Anthony S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

High Perched Private Cottage

Very clean, private and remote, modern amenities mixed with FLW. Great place would highly recommend!
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tami H., Gages Lake

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wow--this will ruin you for any other rental!

Stunning. Every detail. I gifted my husband a few nights' getaway and we really didn't want to leave. Not to sound snooty, but I'm a designer and the details REALLY matter to me--and this place truly could not have been better. The location is perfect--felt like we were far away from everything, but only a short drive from restaurants, etc. We truly could not have had a better getaway. We sure hope to be back! Thanks Joe and Kelly--what a gift to be invited into your cottage/labor of love!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Margie C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Gorgeous, Relaxing, Intimate

We will be back. The O'Donnell cottage is the perfect getaway for 2. Look at the photos, though when you are there it's even better. The most gracious hosts.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Eve C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

One word….INCREDIBLE

Words can’t fully describe what a wonderful experience we had. Joe and Kelly provide an outstanding cottage and location. Everything about our stay was perfect. So many beautiful details about our stay….. I couldn’t even begin to list them all. It’s a weekend we won’t forget. Thank you to the O’Donnell’s for sharing their one of a kind piece of paradise with us!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Richard B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Delight

It was awesome. Very unique and tranquil. Was a awesome time Enjoyed every minute Would highly recommend it
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jeffery F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A wonderful retreat and celebration

My wife and I love visiting this cottage. The vibe is only exceeded by the hospitality of Joe and Kelly.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kunal

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
We were looking for a quiet place to relax for a few days, but what we got was so much more. The cottage is one of the most thoughtfully designed spaces I have ever stayed in, and probably one of the most aesthetically designed places available for rent. There was just a sheet of tall glass that separated us from the spectacular view outside of tall trees and a gorgeous valley around it. From the cozy fireplace with recliners, a fully functional kitchen, an elegant drink table, a modern bathroom, and a sprawling living space made it rather hard for us to leave it and go out. But when we did, the surrounding area along the Mississippi was simply spectacular. We strongly recommend this place and will surely return as soon as possible.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Marcey Z.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Romantic getaway

We booked this for our anniversary getaway. There is no detail left undone, it is such a peaceful and relaxing oasis. There are many good places to eat and explore a short drive from the cottage. We are thankful and blessed to have found this treasure. We will definitely be back!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Shane F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

August 1-3, 2023 Stay

Absolutely the perfect get-a-way. The property is clean, gorgeous views, and out of the way of everyday life. Close enough to Galena and Dubuque attractions, but we found that we just wanted to jest get back to the property to sit on the patio and and enjoy all it has to offer. We really enjoyed making a fire every night and listening to cows and wild life while watching the night sky. If I could give this property 10 stars I would. Joe and Kelly are amazing hosts with great communication and left us a great bottle of wine and turtles (my wife's favorite) to enjoy. We can't wait to book again in the near future.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

John H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing stay and hosts

The house was better then we imagined and the hosts were outstanding.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Melanie M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful Home and Property

This place is unique, clean, perfect temperature, wildlife to watch and just simply well worth the daily rates. You will not be disappointed! Joe was the perfect host. I have no complaints!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jeffery F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Serene hospitality

Our third stay in six months reveals our pleasure in this serene getaway. The O’Donnells have created an ideal retreat for two. They are responsive and generous hosts.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jeffery F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful: Gracious host and beautiful architecture.

We have stayed at the O'Donnell cottage twice now. They are outstanding communicators and host. The cottage is perfection. Light dancing on the stone stone, the way the inside flows to the outside - this is a special place.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Traci T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Incredible Getaway

Amazing hosts, incredible views/sunsets, where technology meets comfort, a perfect location to break away from it all yet close enough to lots of dining and adventures, 10/10!! We will be back :)
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jeffery F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Design and lovely setting

This is a unique property that fulfills its implied promise of a wonderful architectural experience in a quiet countryside setting with an expansive ridge top view. We thoroughly enjoyed discovering all the site and building had to offer.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Leslie D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

GORGEOUS

Amazing property- exactly as described and even better than the pictures! Breathtaking property and great hosts. Thank you!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Bill T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

One of a Kind Fabulous Place!

A beautiful, tree-top setting. Amazing architecture. Beautiful craftsmanship and attention to details. A lovely and thoughtful welcoming gift. One of our best VRBO stays - EVER.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2022

10/10 Excellent

Brandy S., Illinois

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

stunning cottage

this place is very special!
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2022

About the host

Hosted by Joe ODonnell

Host profile image
For over 35 years Kelly and I have lived out here in the Driftless Area of Iowa, with the rolling hills and and small community of St. Donatus. I worked for John Deere for over 28 years, and love the outdoors, ranching, and keeping busy. My wife Kelly came up with the idea to build a cottage for our retirement years, and although successful at this project we felt we should share it when we are not retired.

Why they chose this property

A long time ago, 1993 we started looking for land out in the country like most people. Kelly found this place of 60+ acres and I fell in love immediately, it was a financial miracle to procure, but as luck would have it we were successful. The property has a few ridges overlooking the valley. One ridge has a beautiful view of the valley below with amazing sunsets. it was here we decided to build a cottage.

What makes this property unique

The cottage is an inspiration from Frank Lloyd Wrights “Seth Peterson”. Sadly, Seth never saw it completed and like many FLW projects ran out of money. However, if Seth had all the money, this is what the cottage would have looked like. Over a 100 tons of stone, heated floors, mitred windows, and best of all when you walk in, you feel like you are still outdoors. Simply amazing.

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests